I was in the business world longer than I’ve been a pastor, so I’m still relatively “new” in the field of vocational ministry. I do have many years of experience with life and leadership. It has been amazing to watch how those principles have transferred for God’s glory into the work in the church.
One of my favorite things to do is to invest in other church leaders. I am frequently asked by pastors what my best leadership advice is for them. I don’t know how I could contain all I’d share in a single conversation or post. Plus, I’m still learning. I learn something new everyday.
So, this post is random. And, this post is not exhaustive.
Here are 10 Tweetable pieces of advice I share with pastors:
1. Don’t trade searching for a “Word” on Sunday for searching for a personal relationship with God. That’s where you’ll get your “word”.
2. Don’t allow a need to protect your reputation to keep you from welcoming accountability. You need it!
3. Never compromise one Biblical principle to keep another (shepherding the flock/caring for your family). Your family needs you and so does your church.
4. Don’t waste energy on those people who aren’t trying to help you build a ministry, but trying instead to tear it down.
(A pastor friend of mine once said, “Seek your need for affirmation among the people to whom God has sent you to minister.”)
5. Allow criticism to shape you, but not control you. Every leader doing anything of value attracts critics.
(BTW, criticism often has some elements of merit, so don’t dismiss it completely, but realize the source of your critics, their intent and how it fits with the vision God has given you.)
6. Don’t get so comfortable to where you refuse to walk by faith. God called you to a life of faith-walking.
7. If God is stretching you, it may be uncomfortable for a while, perhaps even hurt, but eventually you’ll love the new shape.
8. As a leader, you’ll seldom make everyone happy. In fact, if that’s your goal, you might consider whether or not you’re a leader.
9. The more you know and trust the heart of God, the less you’ll stress when you don’t know or understand the ways of God.
10. I’d rather lead with character than competence. I can surround myself w/competent people, but no one can make up for my lack of character.
Thanks for the "tweetable" wisdom! After some time in ministry I can affirm that all you've said is completely true. I especially appreciate #8. There is, ultimately, only One who we ought to strive to make happy – to be pleased with us – and that is our Savior. God bless.
Amen
#4 I’m sure it was a pastor friend that gave you that wise quote. Deceased pastor friends don’t say too much (unless maybe his name is YODA?)
Good call. Changed.
Point 5 is particularly appropriate: my friends and I often remind ourselves, "if you're not taking flak, you're not over the target!"
Yep